Keep in mind all this stuff is uber regulated, very detailed, far from simple.

Find Brandon's videos on YouTube for the "four square" method of analyzing homes and practice.

And the changes, such as regulation, city development, traffic flow, building views etc happen very quickly. 

I've consulted a few times over the years with planners and with the way I buy properties, my liquidity requirements, and my concerns about about how government overspending affects the future, makes me a poor candidate for IRAs and 401(k)s with the stifling regulations.   

Just got off the phone with the zoning guy and he said since both of my lots pre-date the zoning regulations in the city, they're grandfathered in so-to-speak, which means I am able to build a single family on each one!

They are a horrible company with unethical billing practices.

I understand Vermont has slightly more stringent regulations to contend with but it would also be closer for us geographically and thus potentially easier to manage. 

In the meantime, I would like to gain experience through employment with an existing real estate or property management company.Is there anyone out there that can provide me with some good advice/guidance as to the best and most practical route to achieve that goal?

This thread shows there is a need for a larger guided discussion on best practices as it relates to (renters) insurance.

I would keep the brokerage account and focus on the tried-and-true practice of saving up for a new investment.